Cast: Keanu Reeves, Laurence Fishburne, Carrie-Anne Moss
Directed by: The Wachowskis
Written by: The Wachowskis
Genre: Action, Science Fiction
Rating:
Video:
Audio:
Extras:
Value:
Review:
Video:
Catalogue releases are often a mixed bag – particularly those from the nineties, for some reason – so it’s a pleasant surprise to see such diligence paid to the high def transfer. While there may be one or two soft(ish) close-ups throughout the film, on the whole Warner Brothers’ video presentation is immaculate. Colors are retained as intended – i.e. muted and decaying, without being muddied – blacks are deep without being overwhelming. What is most impressive is the tactility of the textures – for the first time it dawned on me how cool it would be to see this in 3D. This is one of the best high def restorations around.
Presented in 2.40:1 aspect ratio. (Original 2.35:1)
Audio:
Warn your neighbors: gun shots and techno will be heard. Go to the scene selection, and choose any sequence at random: you will be presented with outstanding demonstration of high definition audio that you will want to show off to your friends. The nuance of sound design is kind of mind blowing as the smallest inkling of effects are heard – even in addition to the gut shaking bass. Warner Brothers brings us a Dolby TrueHD 5.1 audio track that just hasn’t been matched.
English 5.1 Dolby TrueHD
English 5.1 Dolby Digital
French 5.1 Dolby Digital
Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital
Extras:
Duh. This is how you do it. You want commentaries? How about four of them. Documentaries? How about a feature-length behind-the-scenes doc – and loads of mini featurettes. Aside from the Alien Quadrilogy, there hasn’t been a better display of supplement materials to grace a Blu-ray disc.
In-Movie Experience
Gleaning clips from the next feature, watch interviews interlaced throughout the film by the cast and crew.
he Matrix Revisited (SD, 2 hr. 2 min.)
This two hour documentary was recorded on the set of Matrix: Reloaded and provides recollections with the cast and crew about the making and reaction to The Matrix.
Commentaries
There is almost an overabundance of perspectives presented here. Particularly spectacular is the Philosopher’s commentary!
Philosopher’s Commentary with Dr. Cornel West and Ken Wilber
Critics Commentary with Todd McCarthy, John Powers and David Thompson
Cast & Crew Commentary with Carrie-Anne Moss, Zach Staenberg, and John Gaeta
Composer Commentary with Don Davis (with music-only track)
Behind The Matrix Documentary Gallery (SD, 44 min.)
Seven featurettes that have been collected from the previous DVD releases help shed light on the special effects and other making-ofs.
Take the Red Pill Documentary Gallery (SD, 27 min.)
Two featurettes that were featured on the original DVD release that showed the interactivity of the (then) new technology.
Follow the White Rabbit Documentary Gallery (SD, 13 min.)
Nine featurettes that were featured on the original DVD release that showed the interactivity of the (then) new technology.
The Music Revisited
A 41-track music only feature that presents over three hours of Don Davis’ unforgettable score.
Marilyn Manson “Rock Is Dead” Music Video (SD, 4 min.)
Trailers & TV Spots
Value:
Whether you are a fan of the film, or just want a movie to show off your high definition system, The Matrix is about as good as you will find. Warner Brothers has spared no expense in bringing this film to Blu-ray in the right way, delivering huge amounts of value in its special features, and knocking it out of the park with its audio and visual presentation. It’s simply a disc that everyone should own.
Will There Be A Double Dip?
Well, considering there are already multiple versions of this on Blu-ray, it’s safe to say that we have probably seen the last of them. You can purchase The Matrix Collection (which includes this film, Reloaded, Revolutions, and The Animatrix), the Digibook version, and the simplified plastic case version. You’ll find the same features on all of the discs, so it really comes down to your packaging preference.
Cast: Matt Damon, Kate Winslet, Laurence Fishburne
Directed by: Steven Soderbergh
Written by: Scott Z. Burns
Genre: Thriller
Rating:
Video:
Audio:
Extras:
Value: 1/2
Read more about Contagion (2011)
Review:
Video:
For what the film is, the picture quality is simply outstanding. Bear in mind that this is not a sweeping or huge movie — quite the opposite. Soderbergh imbues it with psychology; with characters. It is intimate, so there is seldom showcase scenes to show off your big hi-def system, however the amount of detail in the intimacy is quite astounding. Textures are fully in tact – the latex of the biochemical suits; the vomit on corpses’ mouths; Laurence Fishburne’s face – and Soderbergh’s penchant for coloring scenes exercises this transfer quite nicely.
Presented in 1.78:1 aspect ratio. (Original 1.85:1)
Audio:
The subtle audio track of Contagion is admirable, if underwhelming. As mentioned, it is an intimate film, so the surround is not given a huge workout, but the dialogue, fine sound design, and Cliff Martinez’s driving score are as clean and sterile as the film itself. It’s not the most impressive sound in the world, but that is of no fault on Warner Brothers part. There are no imperfections, but it’s also not something to get excited over.
English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
French 5.1 Dolby Digital
Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital
Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital
Extras:
For a film that is based on a very potentially real situation, one would hope for more in-depth analysis of the film’s inspiration. We’re merely given a few behind-the-scenes looks from the cast and experts on disease. There’s nothing here that wouldn’t be seen in pre-movie advertisements in the theater. A commentary would go a long way, but more importantly, a documentary seems like it would have been essential to this release.
The Reality of Contagion (HD, 11 min.)
This all-too-brief look at how ill-equipped we are to actually handle a situation presented in the film, as told by experts and the cast & crew.
The Contagion Detectives (HD, 5 min.)
Experts and cast give their two cents regarding the research that has gone into the film.
How a Virus Changes the World (HD, 2 min.)
Probably the most entertaining and terrifying feature on the disc, this animated PSA shows just how a virus can be transmitted, and how screwed we are if it happens on a large scale.
BD Live Enabled
You can re-watch The Contagion Detectives on BDL, but no other features have yet been added.
Digital Copy
DVD Copy
Value: 1/2
Even with outstanding dedication to the audio and visual department of this release, it’s still hard to recommend it without more attention given to the special features. A lot of opportunity has been missed to inform people (TO WASH THEIR HANDS), particularly when this is the type of movie that seems to spark a lot of interest in the reality of its story. That said, anyone who merely cares about having the film and not the special features will be hard pressed to find a better looking version of it to ever be released again.
Will There Be A Double Dip?
Doubtful. We can probably expected a simplified version in the future (sans DVD and digital copy), however it’s not a film that has done enough business to warrant a second release.
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Written by: Christopher Nolan
Genre: Action, Thriller
Rating:
Video:
Audio: 1/2
Extras:
Value:
Read more about Inception (2010)
Review:
Video:
Clean, rich video that is a little bit soft due to being shot on film stock instead of a digital format. The film’s lush visuals translate to beautiful picture quality that is a faithful representation of the theatrical experience (depending, of course, on the size of your television). Fans of Inception are sure to notice new levels of detail with this pristine transfer.
Presented in 2.40:1
Audio: 1/2
BONG. There are few other films that span the entire strata of sound design like Inception. BONG. Warner Brothers’ 5.1 DTH-HD Master Audio track is exceptional. BONG. From the biggest explosions to the minutest dialogue, the aural experience here is nearly flawless. The wide range of sound is perfectly represented in all channels, and the mix is absolutely spectacular. Hans Zimmer’s score is overwhelming, but never overpowers the effects or soundscapes. Beautiful.
English 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio
French 5.1 Dolby Digital
Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital
Portuguese 5.1 Dolby Digital
Extras:
This is the area that fans might be a little disappointed. The Two-Disc set (not including the DVD) is a little deceiving. By my estimate, there is no reason it needs to be separated into two discs as the amount of material on the second disc is negligible. Most of the features are made up by galleries, marketing material, and items that are difficult to retrieve from the BD Live section.
That being said, the behind-the-scenes “Extraction Mode” is pretty cool and thorough; the second disc containing a very interesting documentary about dreams and our bodies while we are asleep.
Extraction Mode (HD)
Play this as either an in-movie mode, or watch each segment on its own; Christopher Nolan, cast, and crew give an inside look to how the film was made and an exclusive perspective on the story.
5.1 Inception Soundtrack (HD, 39 min.)
Listen to Hans Zimmer’s beautiful score on its own in this audio-only feature.
Dreams: Cinema of the Subconscious (44 min.)
A documentary that focuses on how our dreams are closely related to cinema; what dreams actually are; how our bodies and mind interpret information while we are awake and asleep. Hosted by Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
Inception: The Cobol Job (HD, 15 min.)
A motion comic that somewhat acts as a prequel to the film, which delves into the background of how Cobb and his crew were brought into Cobol Engineering.
Project Somnacin (HD)
This BD Live feature delves into the dream-share technology created for the film.
Conceptual Art Gallery
Promotional Art Gallery
Trailers & TV Spots
BD Live Enabled
DVD Copy
Digital Copy
Value:
Anyone who somewhat enjoyed Inception and owns a high definition system will want to pick up this Blu-ray, though not without a slight bit of disappointment. The special features are a little weak considering the immensity of the film, but if you’re someone who only cares about the presentation of the movie itself, then look no further.
Will There Be A Double Dip?
Considering the weakness of the special features, and the grandness of the film, I’m inclined to say that there inevitably will be a double-dip at some point in the future. The lack of audio commentary is one indication, and the lack of light shed on the inception of Inception provides a lot of material for future releases.
Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Marion Cotillard, Joseph-Gordon Levitt
Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Written by: Christopher Nolan
Genre: Action/Adventure, Science Fiction
Set in a fantasy world where dreams are a tangible landscape, this science fiction thriller follows Cobb, an extractor of information from the dreamworld, who is hired for a sort of corporate infiltration mission. He assembles a team of the most skilled and experienced psychological thieves and con artists to pull off one of the most ambitious and dangerous missions ever attempted by penetrating a dream within a dream within a dream within a dream. Not only does the operation at the mercy of time, but also a cerebral and emotional strain as the targets’ subconscious begins to fight back.
There are not many directors who can construct such towering blockbusters without sacrificing some sort of intelligence. There are even fewer directors who can pull it off while maintaining an auteurist integrity. But more than any other director of the decade, Christopher Nolan has proven capable of delivering huge entertainment with penetrating subversive themes on the biggest scale movies have to offer. Inception is sure to be a cornerstone in Nolan’s legacy. Here he blends the dissident commentary that is so common in science fiction films, with the thrilling aspects that a big budget provide with a story that is as unique as anything Hollywood has ever churned out.
Leonardo DiCaprio in Inception (2010)
The film is well cast, though for the most part this isn’t necessarily an ‘actors’ film. DiCaprio has the most demanding role, and he handles it with wonderful intensity in a performance that nicely bookends his stint in Shutter Island. Marion Cotillard also creates an enigmatic and emotional portrayal of a woman who exists purely in memories. The rest of the actors definitely bring something invaluable to their roles, even if it is only physically demanding.
Sticking with the paradigm of Nolan’s previous characters, Cobb is an emotionally tortured man suffering from the tragic loss of a loved one. Nolan navigates his characters, and audience, through a maze of the mind body and soul in what is certainly one of the most remarkable blockbusters ever made.
USA. 148 minutes. Rated PG-13.
Cast: Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Kate Winslet
Directed by: Stephen Soderbergh
Written by: Scott Z. Burns
Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller
In a world where the media uses fear as fuel for ratings, where new diseases lurk around every corner, where the accessibility of information has created a paranoid society… oh wait… that’s this world! In Contagion, an outbreak of a new virus has been discovered after the death of an American business woman (Gwyneth Paltrow) returns home from Hong Kong. The virus piques the interest of the Center of Disease Control, who deploy numerous employees (Laurence Fishburne, Kate Winslet) to determine its spreadability; a search for the truth leads journalists (Jude Law) to investigate potential cures; medical scientists (Jennifer Ehle) strive to find antidotes; and ordinary civilians (Matt Damon) fight to survive a violent turn in society.
This film calls to mind the loud thunk of the Mythbusters’ “Plausible” sign. Director Steven Soderbergh makes a clear point very early into the film that if a disease that can be transmitted via touch ever does present itself… we’re all screwed.
Kate Winslet in Contagion (2011)
“A person touches their face three to five times every waking minute,” Kate Winslet’s character states at one point during the film; in between we touch other things, as Soderbergh demonstrates, like these fancy touch screens, and door handles, and each other. His choice of shots highlight our daily interaction with objects we don’t even acknowledge – a linger on a closing door; an insert shot of a waitress punching her order into a computer – to set up a total sense of paranoia. However, as the film wears on, we become a bit desensitized. With each subsequent step away from our actual reality toward what could be, the film’s point seems to become diluted and obscured. What should be chilling ends up being nothing more than a morbid curiosity, or, at best, an intelligent deliberation of a possible future.
This is most likely due to the fact that there is no central character to empathize with. This is a large cast packed with the most talented actors in the business – and they all turn in stupendous performances – however we’re never given the fulfillment of a complete emotional arc of any character. Instead we’re given ruminations about government conspiracy, public paranoia, and unsung heroes. This commentary falls on deaf ears when we cannot experience it on a personal level.
Contagion ends up being a very well made film, but fails to make the decision whether or not to engage the audience intellectually or emotionally and suffers because of it. What starts out to be potentially deadly loses its potency in the final moments.
USA. 106 minutes. Rated PG-13.
It’s common knowledge by now that lists of top films are always rather arbitrary. That being given, they are still obsessive fun.
This year, as I was mentally compiling my list, I came to the conclusion that many of the films I would place highly in my list weren’t exactly technically proficient, nor did they push the bounds of storytelling, genre, or acting very far. After deliberating on this for a good long week, the list fractured and split into two.
“Of course,” I thought, “there are films that are the best, and there are films that are my favorite.” The distinction became clear, and while there is some very important overlaps between the two lists (Rango would easily rank high on both lists), I’ve decided to present a list of what I find to be the best films – as chosen by their contribution and influence to and on cinema – and my favorite movies – as chosen by the number of times I shall revisit them, and/or how closely I shall keep them near my heart.
Let it be known that there are still a few films I have yet to see: Martha Marcy May Marlene, The Skin I Live In, The Future, Piña, and Coriolanus, to name a few. (Understand now why these lists are capricious?) But of the near 100 films that I did see this year, here are my lists:
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Best Films of 201101. The Tree of Life |
Favorite Films of 201101. The Muppets |
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Albert Brooks
Directed by: Nicolas Winding Refn
Written by: Hossein Amini
Genre: Crime
Rating:
Video:
Audio: 1/2
Extras: 1/2
Value:
Review:
Video:
Sony’s high definition presentation of Drive is something to behold. It packs a wallop with its tactile textures, vibrant colors (particularly in facial tones), and it’s broad range of contrast. There are quite a number of dimly lit scenes, particularly the dark of the interior of the car, that display an amazing quality of blacks that are as deep as they can run, while never overwhelming with murkiness. The picture is also clear and void of any debris, and no compression has compromised the image in bringing this to home video. It’s quite a beautiful thing.
Presented in 1080p 2.39:1 aspect ratio.
Drive (2011) | Carey Mulligan and Ryan Gosling
Audio: 1/2
It may or may not seem like it, but Drive’s sound design is essential to the movie’s success, and thankfully it has been preserved with the utmost care. The opening ten minutes of the film paints a grand picture for the rest of the film, providing nuanced and grandiose sound design, dialogue (though minimal), and heart-thumping music over the opening credits. Though the bass doesn’t have quite as much of an impact as it did in the theater, particularly in the second chase sequence, owners of impressive sound systems probably won’t be able to tell the difference. Overall, this is a very fine demonstration worthy audio track.
English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
Extras: 1/2
The special features here are scant, but very informative. An audio commentary would have been very appreciated, however there is quite a lot of information packed into a small amount of features.
I Drive (HD, 05:26)
The cast and producers speak about the story of Drive, and director Nicolas Winding Refn.
Under the Hood (HD, 11:50)
The cast, writer, and producers discuss working on Drive, as well as with each other.
Driver and Irene (HD, 06:14)
The cast, writer, and producers talk about the love story that underlines Drive.
Cut to the Chase (HD, 04:35)
The producers and second unit director reveal the choreography that went into the design of the three different car chases in the film.
Drive Without a Driver: Q&A with Nicolas Winding Refn (HD, 25:41)
Director Nicolas Winding Refn reveals anecdotes on how Drive was made, how he approached the content, and was able to realize his vision.
BD Live Enabled
Value:
While the supplements department is less than ample, the picture and audio quality of this disc more than make up for any indiscretions. The extras do pack a lot of insight into a small amount of time though, and shouldn’t be underestimated. Overall, this is a very high quality release that can easily get my highest recommendation.
Will There Be A Double Dip?
If ever there were a film that would find its legs on home video, it feels like Drive would be it. With that in mind, it’s quite possible that down the line there might be a retrospective version that is released with additional supplements, though for how busy these filmmakers are, I would highly doubt that they would sit down for a commentary track or additional interviews. I’d say that even if there was another version of this disc to be released in the next few years, it still couldn’t look or sound as great as it already does.
Cast: Brendan Gleeson, Don Cheadle, Mark Strong
Directed by: John Michael McDonagh
Written by: John Michael McDonagh
Genre: Comedy, Crime
Rating:
Video: 1/2
Audio:
Extras:
Value:
Read more about The Guard (2011)
Review:
Video: 1/2
Sony’s high definition presentation of The Guard is acceptable, but often lacks conviction. On the whole colors are gorgeous depicting the drab skies and color palates of the Irish countryside, as well as the vibrant colors of clothing, grass, and skin tones. Textures, however, are a bit inconsistent – sometimes looking quite great and sometimes appearing to have plastic qualities. Blacks are also all over the place, sometimes delivering great dynamism, and other times it completely overwhelms the image. Overall, though, the image is clean and spotless.
Presented in 1080p 2.39:1 widescreen aspect ratio.
The Guard (2011) | Don Cheadle and Brendan Gleeson
Audio:
Sony’s lossless presentation faithfully delivered with a strong emphasis on clarity instead of environment. The ambient soundscapes of the exterior scenes is only adequate, though the sound effects mix provides a more full experience. The two most important aspects of this film though is dialogue and score, both of which are clear and precise. It’s hard to compare this audio track to others that might provide a more immersive experience, but for its source material, it is a solid package.
English DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1
Extras:
It’s a little disconcerting that Sony didn’t include most of these features in high definition, particularly McDonagh’s short film The Second Death. Regardless, the originality of some of the features should be commended. It’s also worth noting that while some of the features are only in standard definition, Sony still displays them in 1080 so as to avoid the display gaps in switching between high and standard def.
Audio Commentary
By director John Michael McDonaugh, Don Cheadle, and Brendan Gleeson; this commentary track is sparse of information and mostly consists of the three gents cracking wise and admiring the film. There’s no denying the men have charm and chemistry, but anyone looking for great insight into the film might do better to look elsewhere.
Making of the Guard (HD, 19:21)
Fairly typical of a production featurette that interviews the cast about their characters and the film, as well as a plethora of behind-the-scenes footage.
The Second Death (SD, 11:32)
An unusual inclusion on a Blu-ray disc of this caliber, this is director McDonagh’s short film (also starring Liam Cunningham) that acted as the template for The Guard.
Outtakes (SD, 03:05)
Typical humorous blooper reel.
Q&A with Don Cheadle, Brendan Gleeson, and Director John Michael McDonagh (SD, 18:09)
Perhaps the most insightful inclusion on this disc, the three men answer questions fired at them by a moderator and audience at the Los Angeles Film Festival.
Deleted Scenes (SD, 06:07)
Three scenes that are mostly odds and ends, though there is a compelling scene between Boyle and Gabriela that sheds a new perspective on their relationship.
Extended & Alternate Scenes (SD, 18:37)
Most of this material was certainly cut for time, however this is a few clips here that show an alternative version of the scenes in the film. None are as strong as the final product, but still makes for an interesting watch.
Theatrical Trailer (HD, 02:18)
BD-Live Enabled
Value:
Fans of The Guard (and there are quite a few) will find quite a lot to love here. With clean picture quality, very decent audio, and a grouping of unconventional supplements, this release is quite admirable. The only downfall for some consumers is the absence of a digital copy or DVD version of the film – but for the most part, anyone interested in purchasing this film will certainly get their money’s worth.
Will There Be A Double Dip?
Not likely. The audio and visual department is strong [enough] to keep this release in high regard, especially with the inclusion of a handful of unique supplements. Buy easy.
Cast: Bailee Madison, Guy Pearce, Katie Holmes
Directed by: Troy Nixey
Written by: Guillermo del Toro, Matthew Robbins
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Rating:
Video:
Audio: 1/2
Extras:
Value: 1/2
Review:
Video:
Sony’s transfer to home video of Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark is very admirable. Undoubtedly the strongest aspect of the film is its acutely constructed color palates and set designs, which are accurately translated to the high definition format. The textures of the hold house – particularly its basement – are finely defined, showing the amount of detail that has gone into developing a specific atmosphere. Also, the blacks are deep and rich, which make the shadowy house even more creepy. The few moments when we are shown color, it is vibrant and contrasts the dreary interiors of the old house. Overall, this is a very faithful presentation.
Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (2011) | Guy Pearce
Audio: 1/2
The 5.1 DTS-HD Master Audio track is the best thing this disc has to offer as it presents a clean and clear aural experience that captures the eerie soundscapes. The audio track here utilizes every channel of the surround; the creepy whispers of the pixies, the loud and exciting moments, and everything in between exercise the entire range of sound.
Extras:
There isn’t a whole lot here besides three documentaries chronicling the creation of the film. A number of features could have gone a long way to increase the value of the supplements, (particularly the inclusion of the original film, which barely exists on DVD), but we don’t live in an ideal world. What is presented here is merely sufficient.
Don’t Be Afraid… Documentaries (HD, 20:50)
Three part documentary following Guillermo del Toro’s idea to remake the original film, the process of creature creation, and other areas of art and set design. It’s a quick watch, but not pivotal.
Conceptual Art Gallery (HD)
BD Live Enabled
Value: 1/2
Fans of the film might be disappointed with the scantily clad supplements on this disc, but the twenty-minute documentary is more than most films of this caliber receive. The picture and audio quality make this a more commendable release than one might otherwise believe. Depending on the price, this could be a decent deal… if you already enjoy the movie…
Will There Be A Double Dip?
Most definitely not. Purchase happily… if you dare.
Cast: Owen Wilson, Corey Stoll, Rachel McAdams
Directed by: Woody Allen
Written by: Woody Allen
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Rating:
Video:
Audio:
Extras:
Value:
Read more about Midnight in Paris (2011)
Review:
Video:
Woody Allen’s first excursion with digital filmmaking boasted beautiful results in the theater, painting Paris as the idealistic portrait of romanticism. That digitally captured beauty has, unfortunately, been compromised during the compression for DVD. Darius Khondji’s gorgeously rich lighting and photography still retain a certain tone, but the nuanced color palate and the detail in the sets have lost a lot in compacting it for standard def. It’s still a very clear picture void of any blemishes, but the fidelity is a little lackluster, even for DVD. There is definitely something to be gained from viewing Midnight in Paris in high definition.
Audio:
The audio track is very decent, but isn’t very demanding. This is a film that could quite well have been recorded in mono and presented the same exact experience. The result is a clear audio track that can be related to the experience of listening to a Cole Porter track on vinyl. It’s pretty and fun, but not too complex.
Extras:
Woody Allen’s films have notoriously been void of special features, so the lack of supplements here isn’t a surprise.
Midnight in Cannes (SD, 04:57)
This panel discussion from Cannes shows Woody Allen, Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams, and Adrien Brody talking about their experiences with the film.
Value:
For such an amazingly magical film, this is not quite a magical release. For a film rich in visual beauty, it loses a good oomph with a lackluster video presentation. But really, by the end of the film, if you’re still harping over the quality of its appearance, then there’s a more critical problem at play.
Will There Be A Double Dip?
Nope. If you want to own the film, this is what you’re going to get – for better or worse.
